Gross Motor Development for Toddlers 2-3 Year Olds

Toddler advance and gains new skills in Gross Motor Development milestones achieved throughout earlier years. Co-ordination and challenges that could not be performed before such as hopping, skipping and balancing are now easier to attempt. Toddlers are more agile and athletic during this stage than before.

walks up stairs alternating feet(often still using the rail for support)

stands on one foot, with support

walks on their tiptoes

ride a tricycle

kicks a ball forward

walks, runs, climbs, kicks and jumps easily

uses steps one at a time

squats to play and rises without using hands

catches ball rolled to him/her

walks into a ball to kick it

jumps from low step or over low objects

attempts to balance on one foot

avoids obstacles

able to open doors

stops readily

moves about moving to music:

able to balance on one foot (for a few seconds)

can carry out more than one physical task through improved co-ordination

sits in a chair during meal times

can throw and catch a ball (medium or large size)

climbs up and slide down a playground slide unassisted

throws and catches a ball easily

kicks a ball through improved balance

runs around objects in their path

climbs well

walks down stairs alone, placing both feet on each step

swings leg to kick ball

runs easily

pedals tricycle

bends over easily without falling

Not only are toddlers developing increased co-ordination and balance, due to gross motor skills at this age, there are also a number of physical body changes that toddlers will experience (such as height, neurological changes in the brain and weight). As a toddler grows and becomes leaner and more agile they are able to take part in physical activity for longer without tiring.